Tuesday, June 12, 2007

I some times think that it is worthwhile to post that some animal in the Habitat has not been seen for a while. It seems that they almost immediately show up.My last post mentioned that the ruby-throated hummingbird had not been seen since mid-May. Within a few hours, the hummingbirds were back - at the feeder and in the nearby dogwood tree.These first two photos show a male drinking from the feeder, then flying away.Less than 20 minutes later, a male was observed in the dogwood tree. This second hummer was noticeably larger (at least 50% larger) than the first at the feeder. From these photos you can see how his ruby throat feathers seem to phosphoresce - depending on his position, the camera captures the throat as back or bright red.You can also clearly see this hummer's wing and breast feathers. In the last photo, you can see that he is using his long beak to scratch his back and wings.